Project Overview:

WHL Projects was engaged to solve severe damp issues in a property in Buxton. The homeowner had previously been advised by a “damp expert” to install internal wall tanking, which turned out to be an ineffective solution. An inspection by our sister company, CWBC, revealed that this tanking was inappropriate. Additionally, we found that the cavity wall insulation was soaking wet, and the external wall had areas of loose and missing mortar. These factors were causing mould growth and an uncomfortable living environment.

Project Details:

1. Inspection and Diagnosis: Our initial inspection revealed that the internal tanking, saturated cavity wall insulation, and deteriorated mortar were the main causes of damp and mold. These issues needed to be properly addressed, rather than simply covering them up.

2. Removing Cavity Wall Insulation: WHL Projects used a specialized industrial vacuum to extract the wet insulation from the wall cavities. Small openings were created along the wall to ensure all insulation was removed effectively, allowing the wall to dry out naturally.

3. Removing Internal Tanking and Replastering: The internal tanking and plaster were completely removed, allowing the walls to “breathe” and release trapped moisture. Once the tanking was removed and the walls dried out, we replastered the area to restore a clean finish.

4. Improving Ventilation: We installed extra air vents in the wall to encourage natural airflow, helping prevent future damp issues by allowing any moisture to escape.

5. Repointing the External Wall: The entire gable wall was repointed, filling gaps in the mortar to prevent further moisture from entering the property.

6. Controlled Drying with Dehumidifiers: During the work, we used a commercial-grade dehumidifier to help the wall dry out more quickly, ensuring it was ready for replastering.

Conclusion: 

WHL Projects provided a lasting solution to the damp problems, restoring a dry, healthy environment for the homeowner. This project shows the importance of addressing the root causes of damp, rather than relying on quick fixes like tanking, which can be ineffective. WHL Projects is committed to delivering accurate advice and high-quality, effective solutions, ensuring clients receive reliable, long-term results.